Combating Vulvar Dryness
Often, there are discussions about vaginal dryness and ways to prevent and treat the condition. Unfortunately, vulvar dryness (the external genitalia) is often overlooked. If you suffer from dryness of the external genitalia, these tips should offer some relief:
Monitor your diet
Dehydration can lead to dryness and cracking of the skin even in your intimate area. A daily consumption of eight glasses of water is recommended. Pay attention to your caffeine and alcohol intake. Too much caffeine or alcohol can lead to dry, wrinkled skin.
Monitor your hygiene habits
Long, hot showers or baths may feel great, but they will lead to dry skin. Complete avoidance of hot tubs is a must for those suffering with vulvar dryness. For all of the swimmers out there, decrease the amount of time that you are in chlorinated water. Hard water in your home can leave a build-up of minerals on the skin that can be very drying. Consider investing in a water softener to improve the quality of your water.
Improve your intimate hair removal regimen
If vulvar dryness is a pain in your backside, you may want to consider not removing the hairs from your front side. Each pubic hair is attached to a sebaceous gland. The gland produces sebum, which is the natural moisturizer for the hair and the skin underneath. If the hair is removed, the natural moisturizer must be replaced. Furthermore, shaving the pubic hairs should occur with the use of a moisturizing hair removal cream. The cream provides a protective layer to the skin while the hair is being removed. For all of the women removing the hair down there, make sure you are using a moisturizer twice per day.
Monitor for medical conditions
Some medical conditions, such as diabetes and thyroid disease can cause dryness of the skin, including the intimate area. For anyone with a history of eczema, keep in my that this skin condition may also develop within the intimate area.
Monitor your products
Some products may contain ingredients that are not optimal for women with vulvar dryness. Parabens are used in products to prolong the shelf-life. Some people may experience dryness with products containing parabens. Sulfate is used to create the lathering effect and the improved ease of spread in cleaning products. Some forms of sulfate may increase vulvar dryness. Vitamin A is often used to treat skin conditions such as acne. Vitamin A products may need to be used less frequently or discontinued if vulvar dryness becomes a problem. Other product may improve vaginal dryness. Women who are postmenopausal should speak with their primary care doctor or gynecologist about use of estrogen to combat vaginal dryness. Every woman with a dry garden should add a moisturizer to their intimate skincare routine.
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